Raymond Saw Po Ray
Raymond Saw Po Ray (11 August 1948 – 6 January 2025) was a prelate of the Catholic Church who served as an auxillary bishop of the Archdiocese of Yangon and as the bishop of the Diocese of Mawlamyine.
Quotes
[edit]- We follow closely and with concern the situation regarding the conflicts with ethnic minorities in the country. We are all aware that this is a crucial issue for the future of the nation. We want to work to build peace in Myanmar.
- It is a very positive sign for the nation. The government has said it wants to listen to the will of the people.
- We hope that the conflict and violence cease, but we know it will be difficult, because of the desire of some belligerent military leaders and also because of China's interest.
- The whole country speaks of peace, people and minorities talk about it. We strongly hope that now it is a priority for the country, although there are several obstacles to be removed. A cease-fire in the conflict with the Kachin is a beautiful sign of hope for all. The next step is to initiate a national reconciliation process, where all our efforts go. Of course, the civil conflict has lasted for decades and ethnic minorities have suffered greatly because of the war. For this reason, in the new era of reforms that the country lives, there is now a historic opportunity, a kairos: we strongly want peace and we hope with all our heart that a period of reconciliation begins.
- In the assembly of Bishops we faced pastoral issues, but we are attentive to the evolution of Burmese society. We are confident that the Church and all Christians will have an important role and contribute to building a future of peace, freedom and justice in Myanmar.
- Today the people of Burma live the opportunity to make a change to the real life of the country. We hope there is good will on behalf of all social components, government and society.
- Before talking about a new era, we are at the beginning of a new phase, since there are still many challenges ahead.
- We need to be patient, work together and be able to negotiate, even in politically sensitive phases. On our behalf, we can pray and hope, supporting morally and spiritually every positive effort that points to the progress of the nation.
- We must respect and build a future of peace and justice based on the respect of human rights. Let us remember that during the dictatorship period, all ethnic minorities in Burma were marginalized and penalized. We now want a change of approach from the government and steps have been taken in various areas of the country.
- We are aware of living in a historical phase of transition, even delicate. We must be patient, since the processes initiated, including the democratic one, are slow. We must take a gradual approach and proceed step by step, without forcing our hand.
